Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Massively's Guide to Dragon*Con 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/massivelys-guide-to-dragon-con-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/massivelys-guide-to-dragon-con-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/massivelys-guide-to-dragon-con-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Dragon*Con Logo
PAX Prime is freshly finished and Gamescom 2011 is a distant memory, but con season isn't over yet! Not by a long shot, in fact. Dragon*Con is just around the corner, and we have undertaken the monumental task of putting together a what's-what for all of our adoring MMO fans.

Now, just because Dragon*Con isn't as internationally renowned as Gamescom or as well-publicized as Penny Arcade's brainchild doesn't mean you should write it off by any means. There's still a whole truckload of events for MMO players at Dragon*Con. From Q&As to panels (including one on MMO podcasting that includes our very own Shawn Schuster!) and more, there's a little something for every MMO player at Dragon*Con.

So whether you're attending or just want to see what kind of news you have to look forward to coming out of Dragon*Con (news that will, of course, be covered right here on Massively), jump on past the cut and see what the Atlanta-based con has in store.

Continue reading Massively's Guide to Dragon*Con 2011

MassivelyMassively's Guide to Dragon*Con 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurequest-worldsatlantaccpccp-gamesdc-universe-onlinedcuodragon-condragon-con-2011dragoncondragoncon-2011eventeventsglobal-agendaguidehi-rezhi-rez-studioskingdom-of-loathingmassively-guidemassivelys-guide-to-dragonconmmo-trackoxhornpanelsriftsoesony-online-entertainmentthe-guildtrion-worldsThu, 01 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: A talk with the crew of The Fellows Hip: Rise of the Gamers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/the-road-to-mordor-a-talk-with-the-crew-of-the-fellows-hip-ris/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/the-road-to-mordor-a-talk-with-the-crew-of-the-fellows-hip-ris/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/the-road-to-mordor-a-talk-with-the-crew-of-the-fellows-hip-ris/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Buzz has been increasing about an intriguing independent film that looks to blend Tolkien love, geek pride, and Lord of the Rings Online fandom into one epic adventure. Called The Fellows Hip: Rise of the Gamers, this movie is about a group of friends who undertake a journey to a convention in order to participate in a LotRO gaming competition (and stick it to some bullies while they're at it).

Many blogs, such as LOTRO Reporter and A Casual Stroll to Mordor, have promoted this up-and-coming film, and after seeing the trailer, we too became fascinated with what could be a fun movie that puts MMO gaming front and center.

One may not simply walk into Mordor, but with the right connections, one could phone the folks up there. We got on the line with three crew members for The Fellows Hip -- Ron Newcomb (producer, director and writer), Scott Mathais (producer and writer), and Shane McClung (producer) -- to see just what type of lovable insanity would cause a group of people to throw together such a movie.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: A talk with the crew of The Fellows Hip: Rise of the Gamers

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: A talk with the crew of The Fellows Hip: Rise of the Gamers originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-casual-stroll-to-mordorconventiondragonconfan-filmfeaturedfred-savagegeekgeeksgooniesharry-potterindie-filminterviewjrr-tolkienlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-reportermiddle-earth-enterprisesmines-of-moriamonster-playmorianapoleon-dynamitenew-zealandpeter-jacksonpeter-parkerpvmppvprevenge-of-the-nerdsRon-NewcombScott-MathaisShane-McClungthe-fellows-hipthe-fellows-hip-rise-of-the-gamersthe-gooniesthe-wizardtolkientronturbineturbine-entertainmentzero-charismaFri, 01 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WoW-a-thon for Dragon*Con MMO track staffer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/wow-a-thon-for-dragon-con-mmo-track-staffer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/wow-a-thon-for-dragon-con-mmo-track-staffer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/wow-a-thon-for-dragon-con-mmo-track-staffer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Many people, when they think of online gaming, think of 13-year-olds on Xbox Live shouting expletives and teabagging your freshly killed corpse, but those of us who have spent enough time in the community know that there's much more to it than just that. Kevin Stallard, of Dragon*Con MMO track fame, is setting out to prove just that.

Kevin's close friend and Dragon*Con staffer Jay Sturrock was recently diagnosed with cancer, and anyone who has ever been diagnosed with cancer or known someone who has can tell you that treatment is not only emotionally exhausting, but financially taxing as well. With this in mind, Kevin is looking to put his World of Warcraft habit to a good cause. On July 9th, Kevin will be holding a 24-hour "WoW-a-thon" at Battle & Brew Gaming Pub in Marietta, GA. Throughout the course of this gaming marathon, Kevin invites fellow gamers to join him either at the pub or in Azeroth and, if they're able, to pledge some money toward covering Jay's medical bills from the treatment. Can't make it to the event itself but still want to help? No problem, just keep an eye on the official event page where PayPal information will soon be posted. We wish Kevin and Jay the best and hope the Massively community will pitch in for this noble cause.

[Update: Grim was nice enough to jump in on the comments to inform us that the PayPal link is live. You can find it on the right sidebar of the Dragon*Con MMO track's official site. Get those donations going!]

MassivelyWoW-a-thon for Dragon*Con MMO track staffer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Jun 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cancer-aidcancer-treatmentdragon-condragonconfundraisingjay-sturrockkevin-stallardworld-of-warcraftwow-a-thonwow-marathonWed, 01 Jun 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Launch sponsoring DragonCon 2011 MMO track]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/guild-launch-sponsoring-dragoncon-2011-mmo-track/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/guild-launch-sponsoring-dragoncon-2011-mmo-track/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/guild-launch-sponsoring-dragoncon-2011-mmo-track/#commentsFiled under: , ,

DragonCon isn't far over the horizon, and both genre fans and companies are making plans to descend on Atlanta for the annual Labor Day weekend nerd-a-thon in September. One such outfit is Guild Launch, and the hosting company has just announced via press release that it will be sponsoring the MMO track at this year's convention.

Guild Launch, founded in 2006 and renowned for its ability to ease the HTML-ignorant into the creation and maintenance of their own guilld-related websites, will be participating in various MMORPG panels as well as exhibiting its services throughout the convention. "After attending DragonCon for the last few years we decided we wanted to promote the DragonCon MMO track more directly. We've found DragonCon to be an awesome place to meet the members of our service and we look forward to meeting more of them in 2011," says company founder Stephen Johnston.

MassivelyGuild Launch sponsoring DragonCon 2011 MMO track originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consconventionsdragon-condragoncondragoncon-2011exhibitorsguild-launchguild-websitesmmo-industrynerd-a-thonpress-releasepress-releasesstephen-johnstonTue, 26 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Did you go to a game convention last year?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/the-daily-grind-did-you-go-to-a-game-convention-last-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/the-daily-grind-did-you-go-to-a-game-convention-last-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/the-daily-grind-did-you-go-to-a-game-convention-last-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It is, in many ways, the ultimate gamer's pilgrimage -- to make the long trek to attend a gaming convention. Whether it be PAX, Dragon*Con, Fan Faire, BlizzCon, Leipzig or GamesCom, it's surprising the amount of money, time, effort and willingness to stand in line with sweaty people that we put up with just to see the latest games and talk to our favorite developers.

It's hard to explain the allure of these conventions to outsiders, but there's something thrilling in seeing crowds of people who share your same hobby and get excited over all the same stuff you do. Plus, there's the swag. OH, the swag!

Did you make your pilgrimage in 2010? Did you manage to get away to a fabulous retreat (from reality) and attend a game convention? And was it everything you'd hoped, or did it let you down?

Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Did you go to a game convention last year? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzconconsconventionconventionsdragon-condragonconfan-fairegamescomLeipzigopinionpaxpenny-arcade-expopilgrimagesoe-fan-fairespandex-is-a-privilege-not-a-rightswagtdgthe-daily-grindWed, 12 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DragonCon 2010: MMO track listing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/dragoncon-2010-mmo-track-listing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/dragoncon-2010-mmo-track-listing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/dragoncon-2010-mmo-track-listing/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's time once again for our yearly invasion of Dragon*Con in Atlanta, Georgia! While, yes, we will have several members of our team covering everything going on at PAX, Dragon*Con offers us a chance to get involved with the community and give back some of the love we get during the year. (Oh yes, and some of the snark too.) Of course, it doesn't hurt that Dragon*Con is also an enormous 4-day long party for just about everything any geek would ever be interested in!

If you've been wondering what's going on this year with the MMO track, which we'll be back to help with for our fourth year straight, then join us after the break for this year's panel listing! Also, for those friends who haven't picked it up (or anyone curious), the online pocket guide to the overall con is available for download.

Continue reading DragonCon 2010: MMO track listing

MassivelyDragonCon 2010: MMO track listing originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 31 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dcdc-2010dragon-condragoncondragoncon-2010mmommo-trackmmorpgtrack-listingTue, 31 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Mob Meetups: Dragon*Con 2010 & PAX 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/30/massively-mob-meetups-dragon-con-2010-and-pax-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/30/massively-mob-meetups-dragon-con-2010-and-pax-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/30/massively-mob-meetups-dragon-con-2010-and-pax-2010/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Labor Day weekend is coming up and you know what that means: Dragon*Con 2010 and PAX 2010 are here! The two dueling conventions are back to capture the hearts of nerds across America, and Massively.com is going to be in full force at both conventions this year -- a first for us!

To celebrate, we're having not one, but two MMO fan gatherings, so our fans from both sides of the country can attend!

If you're a PAX person, then come visit us at 8:00 p.m. PDT at The Night Kitchen in Seattle! The Night Kitchen is equipped with a lovely lounge and free wi-fi, so bring your laptop and show off your l33t epics to the mob and the staff! Rubi Bayer, Larry Everett, and Justin Olivetti will be hosting the party, so be sure to drop by, say hi, pick up some late night snacks, and tell us all about your favorite games!

If you're a Dragon*Conite, then be sure to drop by the Sheraton's Capitol Ballroom at 10:00 p.m. EDT for the MMO Gathering of Heroes! This is the Dragon*Con MMO track's official dance party, and it's also being hosted by Massively's own Krystalle Voecks and former Massively.com columnist Rafe Brox. Rafe and Krystalle will be laying down the beats for the party, but Grand Poobah Shawn Schuster and I, Seraphina Brennan, will be in attendance as well. (Most likely in costume!) Plus, we can't forget about Kevin Stallard, the leader of the MMO track and former Ask Massively man! So if you want to come meet some fellow MMO-lovers, dance, or meet some of the Massively.com staffers, then this is your party. (P.S. -- A Dragon*Con 2010 pass is required to get into this party.)

So, to recap: Saturday, September 4th at 8:00 p.m. PDT at Seattle's Night Kitchen, or Saturday, September 4th, at 10:00 p.m. EDT at Dragon*Con's MMO Gathering of Heroes, located in the Capitol Ballroom of the Sheraton hotel.

If you need help, or reminders, join our Steam Community group, The Massively Mob! We hope to see you at one of our events!

MassivelyMassively Mob Meetups: Dragon*Con 2010 & PAX 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>convention-partiesconventionsdc-meetupdragon-con-2010dragoncondragoncon-2010eventlabor-day-weekendmassively-mob-eventmmo-gatheringmmo-gathering-of-heroesmob-meetuppartypax-2010pax-meetuppenny-arcade-expopenny-arcade-expo-2010reader-meetupreal-world-eventthe-night-kitchenMon, 30 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon*Con 2009: Costumes, the parade and more!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/dragon-con-2009-costumes-the-parade-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/dragon-con-2009-costumes-the-parade-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/dragon-con-2009-costumes-the-parade-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Didn't get a chance to check out the costumes at Dragon*Con this year? No problem! We spent the last weekend grabbing literally hours of video footage to stuff into a small, digestible 10-minute chunk for our readers. We have some footage of the costumes around the hotels, the mass of people outside and of course, the epic parade that is held every year.

Follow along after the jump for just a tidbit of our favorite moments from Dragon*Con 2009, and look for a photo gallery of even more wonderful imagery coming soon.

Continue reading Dragon*Con 2009: Costumes, the parade and more!

MassivelyDragon*Con 2009: Costumes, the parade and more! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantacosplaycostumesdragoncondragoncon-2009videoThu, 10 Sep 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon*Con 2009: Massively is in the house!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/04/dragon-con-2009-massively-is-in-the-house/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/04/dragon-con-2009-massively-is-in-the-house/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/04/dragon-con-2009-massively-is-in-the-house/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's that time of year again! For the next four days, the streets of Atlanta, GA will be transformed from a bustling downtown business center to prime acreage chock full of enormous nerd herds. With a handful of East coast writers, we here at Massively couldn't let all the geeky shenanigans - and MMO fun - go on without taking part. That's right, we have been invited back to participate for a third year as panelists and general party fiends at the MMO track.

On site this year to take part in the fun are Colin Seraphina Brennan, Shawn Schuster, Elizabeth Harper for both Massively and our sister-site, WoW.com, and myself. When we're not lending our professional hands to various things, we'll be catching up with guests, attendees, and generally scouting for anything that might send gamer geek hearts fluttering.

If you're also in Atlanta for this enormous pop-culture love-in and would like to catch up with the Massively crew, be sure to check out the listing behind the break for where we'll all be. Just remember there's tons of other great things going on for the MMO track, so be sure to check the pocket guide for a full schedule!

Continue reading Dragon*Con 2009: Massively is in the house!

MassivelyDragon*Con 2009: Massively is in the house! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appearancesdragon-condragoncondragoncon-2009eventsmmo-trackpanelsschedulestaffFri, 04 Sep 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Meet the Massively team at DragonCon '09]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/meet-the-massively-team-at-dragoncon-09/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/meet-the-massively-team-at-dragoncon-09/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/meet-the-massively-team-at-dragoncon-09/#commentsFiled under: , ,


As we are just now recovering from BlizzCon and GamesCom last week, we realize we're not even close to being through the summer convention season yet. DragonCon in Atlanta, GA and PAX in Seattle, WA both start next week, and you can bet there are more than a few of us at Massively who will be attending these major conferences.

At DragonCon specifically, the Massively staff will be in full force as four of us plan to attend in one form or another. Some of us will be speaking at panels, some of us will be doing interviews and one of us is even on the MMO Track planning staff. And then there are the parties! Want to party with us? Follow along after the jump to learn where we'll be and how you can get your hands on some Massively swag.

Continue reading Meet the Massively team at DragonCon '09

MassivelyMeet the Massively team at DragonCon '09 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conananarchy-onlineconventiondragoncondragoncon-2009eventfuncomfunconmeet-and-greetmeet-upThu, 27 Aug 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[AoC dev blog discusses class tweaks and recruiting more advocates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/aoc-dev-blog-discusses-class-tweaks-and-recruiting-more-advocate/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/aoc-dev-blog-discusses-class-tweaks-and-recruiting-more-advocate/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/aoc-dev-blog-discusses-class-tweaks-and-recruiting-more-advocate/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Funcom's Glen "Famine" Swan has put another entry into his blog at MMORPG, discussing Age of Conan's upcoming guild features (which Craig Morrison elaborated on in his recent game director letter) as well as some class tweaks that the developers have been working on. Right now the dev team is looking at the Bear Shaman and Barbarian classes, with the Conqueror and Dark Templar up for possible changes after they're done with the first two. He doesn't spill the beans on exactly what might be happening with these classes but we're told to stay tuned for more information soon.

The rest of Famine's blog post relates to things outside of the game. It sounds like the Advocate Program has been going well, but Funcom would like to bring a few more advocates on board. Along with the existing class advocates, they might be recruiting advocates specifically for areas like roleplaying and player-versus-player, as was planned some time ago. Famine also gave a quick update on Funcom's plans for Dragon*Con in Atlanta this September. Among the activities will be a developer panel featuring Age of Conan's lead designer Joel Bylos.

MassivelyAoC dev blog discusses class tweaks and recruiting more advocates originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advocate-programadvocatesage-of-conanbarbarianbear-shamanconquerorcraig-morrisondark-templardragon-condragon-con-2009dragonconfaminefuncomglen-swanMon, 03 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively - Goodbye, Farewell, Amen.]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/ask-massively-goodbye-farewell-amen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/ask-massively-goodbye-farewell-amen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/ask-massively-goodbye-farewell-amen/#commentsFiled under: ,


It's been a few months since I have written Ask Massively, and I am sorry to say that this will be my last column for Massively. Before I leave you guys with something to think about, I'd like to take this opportunity to thank Elizabeth, Krystalle, and the folks at Massively for allowing me to have this forum. It has been a pleasure working with them, and it has been a pleasure writing for you.

So, I hold in my hand, the last envelope...

Dear Massively,

Aside from "Find a soft spot to fall when you hear your puller say 'Oops' " Do you have any last words of wisdom to impart before you leave?

-Grimthorn Redbeard

Continue reading Ask Massively - Goodbye, Farewell, Amen.

MassivelyAsk Massively - Goodbye, Farewell, Amen. originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conananarchy-onlineask-massivelyblizzardcity-of-heroescopernicusdragonconeverquestfeaturedlord-of-the-rings-onlinencsoftstar-trek-onlinetabula-rasawarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftFri, 06 Mar 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom goes bi-coastal this year at conventions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/funcom-goes-bi-coastal-this-year-at-conventions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/funcom-goes-bi-coastal-this-year-at-conventions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/funcom-goes-bi-coastal-this-year-at-conventions/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


If you're an ardent follower of Age of Conan, or perhaps one of the folks still spending time in Anarchy Online, then it looks like you've got a choice of conventions to attend this Labor Day weekend! Funcom has announced that not only will they be returning to their regular East coast convention haunt, Dragon*Con, as part of the MMO track - they'll also be expanding their travel this year to hang out with the gamers at PAX as well!

While there's no specifics as yet as to what they'll be doing with their communities at each convention, we can tell you from personal experience that Funcom throws good parties and has some pretty interesting panels. So, if either one of these two conventions is on your travel agenda, be sure to pop by and say hello to the Funcom teams.

MassivelyFuncom goes bi-coastal this year at conventions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conananarchy-onlineconventionconventionsdragoncondragoncon-2009funcompaxpax-2009Wed, 25 Feb 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: Second chances in MMO's]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/28/ask-massively-second-chances-in-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/28/ask-massively-second-chances-in-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/28/ask-massively-second-chances-in-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , ,

I'm feeling a bit cranky these days, so for this week's Ask Massively, I thought that I'd give you all my unvarnished opinion instead of kissing your collective backside in order to generate a few more page hits. Get your claws out for this one, folks. This nugget of truth is going to hurt a little.

Why do MMO's only have 1 shot when they change so *drastically* over time?

Games such as EQ2, DDO, Vanguard, Tabula Rasa, perhaps AoC...

6 months to a year later when the game is good and bursting with content etc. Why do players always chime the mantra "Too little too late" and perfer to just wait for the "next big thing" instead of re-visting these other games?

I understand feeling burnt for not getting everything at launch, but who cares? if the game has everything you wanted *now* who cares about the past when it *didnt*?

I just dont get it.

-Ding Dong Dang

Continue reading Ask Massively: Second chances in MMO's

MassivelyAsk Massively: Second chances in MMO's originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Aug 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conananarchy-onlineddodragonconeve-onlineeverquestfeaturedliving-legacytabula-rasaworld-of-warcraftThu, 28 Aug 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom announces its Dragon*Con plans]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/27/funcom-announces-its-dragon-con-plans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/27/funcom-announces-its-dragon-con-plans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/27/funcom-announces-its-dragon-con-plans/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


American readers: are you going to Dragon*Con this Labor Day weekend? Funcom (developer of Anarchy Online, Age of Conan, and The Secret World) is! Its specific plans have been laid out at the Age of Conan website.

The company will have its own booth, of course, which will be open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM Friday through Sunday, and from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Monday. More interestingly, though, Funcom will be hosting what it calls the "FunCon Event" in the Sheraton Capital Ballroom on Friday at 10:00 PM. The party will feature music by DJ Tarryk and visitors from the teams of all three Funcom projects.

The following day, Funcom will present its two currently-released games -- Anarchy Online at 10:00 AM and Age of Conan at 7:00 PM. Somewhere amidst all these proceedings, fans will have the opportunity to win posters, inflatable swords, t-shirts, lanyards, custom PC cases, and "one special customized Anarchy Online PC." That's cool. It's probably not cool enough to go out of your way to go to Dragon*Con for, but if you're already gonna be there you might as well stop by. Check out Massively's complete Dragon*Con schedule for other events and booths to hit up, too.

MassivelyFuncom announces its Dragon*Con plans originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conananarchy-onlineboothdj-tarrykdragon-condragon-con-2008dragoncondragoncon-2008eventfuncomfunconlabor-daypartypresentationsprizesthe-secret-worldWed, 27 Aug 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively goes to Dragon*Con: Monday events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-monday-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-monday-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-monday-events/#comments All times Eastern. Post will be updated as schedule changes, so be sure to bookmark this and check back! Also of note: frosty adult beverages will be on sale at all night-time ballroom events.

Athens Room:

10:00 AM
 Anarchy Online: Q&A with Funcom
Jorgen Tharaldsen and Terri Perkins from Funcom will answer your questions about Anarchy Online and show you that Rubi-ka is very much alive and well.
11:30 AM
 Gaia Online: Q&A with Gaia Interactive
Gaia is hosting a special Gaia Online gathering where Gaia Online members can meet each other and hang out while making new friends. Come get to know your fellow Gaian's on a personal level. In addition to hanging out, all attendees will receive a special prize!
1:00 PM
 Free MMOGs you should check out
Want to play MMOs, but are on a tight budget? This is the place for you! Krystalle Voecks from Massively discusses some interesting MMOs on the 'net that cost absolutely nothing to play.
2:30 PM
 Post MMOrtem / Survivor's gathering
Don't miss your chance to take a parting shot at our staff and let them know what went wrong (or right) this year. If we missed a game that you wanted to see, this is your best chance to let us know about it. Bring coffee... and donuts... and anything else that might cure a hangover.

MassivelyMassively goes to Dragon*Con: Monday events originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantaconventiondc-2008dragon-condragonconevent-coverageeventsmmo-trackmmogmmorpgpanelsplanningscheduleswow-insiderTue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively goes to Dragon*Con: Sunday events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-sunday-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-sunday-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-sunday-events/#comments All times Eastern. Post will be updated as schedule changes, so be sure to bookmark this and check back! Also of note: frosty adult beverages will be on sale at all night-time ballroom events.

Athens Room:

10:00 AM
 Star Wars Galaxies: Q&A with SOE
In MMO parlance, "A long time ago..." is 5 years, and "...a galaxy far, far away" means "on the Internet." Join Alan "Brenlo" Crosby for a look at Sony Online Entertainment's version of George Lucas' universe.
11:30 AM
 AQ Worlds
How do you fit a massively multiplayer game in a web browser? Meet the friendly team from Artix Entertainment and find out! They are the creators of popular (and slightly campy) web games AdventureQuest, DragonFable and MechQuest. Join them and see how they are making their way through building their first MMO. Battle on!
1:00 PM
 Maintaining Wife (or Husband) faction
Tired of fighting your worst battles after the raid is over? Come and join Kevin Stallard and Krystalle Voecks from Massively as they discuss how to keep your significant other happy while still having time to play your favorite games.
2:30 PM
 Age of Conan: Q&A with Funcom
Come chat with Jorgen Tharaldsen and Terri Perkins from Funcom, as they discuss upcoming changes and take your questions.
4:00 PM
 Champions Online: Q&A with Cryptic
Meet Sam Clifford, Senior Designer at Cryptic Studios and developer of the Superhero MMORPG "Champions Online," as he shows off some of the features of this upcoming game and answers your questions.
5:30 PM
 Second Life: Games within the metaverse
Just what is Second Life and how do I use it to have fun? You have questions, this panel has answers. A brief overview of SL will no doubt devolve into discussions of the building, the scripting, fashion, the currency, and the games within Linden Lab's virtual world.
12:00 AM
 Late Night Machinima
In the finest traditions of "Late Night Kung Fu Theater" and "The Late Late Late Movie", we present the lighter side of Machinima. Join Christina "Romily" Rollins for some of the finest fan-made films using characters from your favorite MMO games.

Augusta Room:

10:00 AM

 Legal and ethical Issues in MMO gaming (The gold-farming panel)
Back by popular demand, come and let your "Inner Johnny Cochran" out for an hour. If the gold is farmed, who gets harmed? Who really owns all that stuff that you work (play) so hard to get or make? If you came to Dragon*Con seeking legal advice, you should probably seek professional (psychiatric) help. If, however, you want to come and get into a good discussion, then this is the place to be.
11:30 AM

 EverQuest: Q&A with SOE
Join us for a chat with Alan "Brenlo" Crosby as we discuss one of the oldest and most popular MMORPGs of all time. From the Kunark expansion to Living Legacy, EQ has come a long way.
1:00 PM
 EverQuest II: Q&A with SOE
Alan Crosby (Brenlo) will talk about what Sony has planned for EQ2 and will answer your questions.
2:30 PM
 So you'd like to work in the MMO industry?
Scott Holden from CCP Games (EVE Online). Mark Capps (Unreal), and Mark Crump will answer your questions about how to get into the Massively Multiplayer Online Gaming industry. If you're an artist, designer, programmer, writer, or just a fan of the genre, join us for an inside look at how it all happens.
4:00 PM
 WoW Add-ons
MMORPGs in general, and World of Warcraft in particular, never seem to have a user interface that does everything we want it to. There are millions of add-ons out there that promise to do everything from dress you appropriately to cast your spells for you with a simple click of the mouse. How do you find them? What is dangerous? What's coming in Wrath?? Krystalle Voecks and Mark Crump have some answers that may help.
5:30 PM
 Tabula Rasa: Player Gathering
Come and meet your fellow Tabula Rasa players. Share some war stories of fighting the Bane, hoist a cold beverage or two, and have a good time.

Capital Ballroom:

7:00 PM


MMO Trivia contest
We have prizes up for grabs -- but this game isn't about loot; It's about bragging rights. Everyone plays, anyone can win. You can pre-register as a team on the DC MMO website or catch up with the D*C MMO staff in person at any of our panels during the weekend. The only "charge" to play is that you have fun!
10:00 PM

 World of Warcraft: An evening with WoW Insider & Massively
Here it is. The one you've all been asking for since last year, when we packed not one, but two rooms and had to turn away 300 more people because we couldn't cram anyone else in the door. The WoW party is back with a vengeance. Come and represent the Alliance or the Horde in a battle of epic partying. We're going to punt gnomes, nerf warlocks, and make last year's get together look like a tea party. Oh, and we'll have some schwag too. You know, if you're into that kind of thing.

MassivelyMassively goes to Dragon*Con: Sunday events originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantaconventiondc-2008dragon-condragonconevent-coverageeventsmmo-trackmmogmmorpgpanelsplanningscheduleswow-insiderTue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively goes to Dragon*Con: Saturday events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-saturday-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-saturday-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-saturday-events/#comments All times Eastern. Post will be updated as schedule changes, so be sure to bookmark this and check back! Also of note: frosty adult beverages will be on sale at all night-time ballroom events.

Athens Room:

10:00 AM
 [Updated] Free Realms: Demo / Q&A with SOE
Join us as Sony Online Entertainment's Alan "Brenlo" Crosby shows us this upcoming free-to-play MMO offering. Free Realms marks an exciting new direction for SOE, sure to interest gamer kids and parents! Get a look before the beta!
11:30 AM
 Force of Arms: Q&A with Wardog Studios
This talk will cover the history, strategies, methods of developing Force of Arms along with features and an insider look at this Sci-fi mech MMOG. Also included will be a look at creating a MMO as an independent entity, both in the technical and business aspects.
1:00 PM
 Pirates of the Burning Sea: Q&A with Flying Lab
Yarr, matey! Come and meet the motley crew from Flying Lab as they answer your questions about Pirates of the Burning Sea.
2:30 PM
 Champions Online: Q&A with Cryptic
Meet Sam Clifford, Senior Designer at Cryptic Studios and developer of the Super-hero MMORPG Champions Online. Sam will be showing off some of the features of this upcoming game and answering your questions.
4:00 PM
 WAAAGH! Tales from the Warhammer Online beta
The Dragon*Con staff has managed to get an inside look at Mythic's upcoming title, Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning, and they're going to tell you all about it. Join us.
12:00 AM
 Late Night Machinima
Come join Christina "Romily" Rollins for more gaming machinima than you even knew was out there. Feature both award-winning artists and up-and-coming names in the machinima scene!

Augusta Room:

11:30 AM

 Stargate Worlds: Sneak preview
Sure, D*C has a Stargate track, but what about the upcoming game? Join some of the D*C crew for discussion and a look at this hot new title.
1:00 PM

 City of Heroes/City of Villains: Player meet-up
Pulchritudinous people of Paragon City, and rambunctious rabble of the Rogue Isles -- come and meet your fellow fearless friends at the City of Heroes and Villains gathering. Share your war stories and meet some old friends, or make some new ones.
2:30 PM
 WoW Drama (aka Schadenfreude 101)
World of Warcraft? Drama? Nooooooo. Join WoW Insider and Massively as we look at some of the things we've seen and heard from the forums, commenters, and more. Bring your own tales of epic lulz to share in this free-form style panel!
4:00 PM
 The Future of Machinima
We've all seen the exploits of Leeroy Jenkins and Red vs. Blue. Machinima is now turning into an art form, Hollywood production tool, and a new type of media in its own right. Join Christina "Romily" Rollins and her special guests, including Matt Kelland, for a look at Machinima today and where it's headed next.
5:30 PM
 Lord of the Rings Online: Player gathering
Are you a tricksy Hobbit? Are you a Dwarf who has been tossed one time too many? Are you an Elf having a really bad (or good) hair day? This is the place for you. Come and meet your fellow LotRO players and swap some tales from the online version of Middle-earth.

Sheraton Capitol Ballroom:

4:30 PM


MMO Costume Contest check-in
Come one, come all! From basic costumes, to highly detailed, entries are welcome from any and all MMOs! Just have a notecard/piece of paper/scrap of bar napkin with your name, the game your costume is from, and a quick description. Note: Contestants for the MMO costume contest must check in no later than 5:00 PM.
5:30 PM

 MMO Costume Contest
Last year, we had an idea, 2 weeks notice, and landed a packed house and a full overflow room. This year, we're ready to do it even bigger, and with even more awesome prizes! Come watch - or dress as your favorite MMO character and join in as Krystalle Voecks from Massively hosts the 2nd Annual MMORPG Costume Contest. Special guest star judges include Jorgen Tharaldsen from Funcom and Alan "Brenlo" Crosby from Sony Online Entertainment.
7:00 PM

 Age of Conan: Demo and Q&A with Funcom
Join us for a chat with Jorgen Tharaldsen and Terri Perkins from Funcom as we discuss what is right, what is wrong, and what is changing with Age of Conan.

Marriott Atrium Ballroom (A601 & A602):

10:00 PM


General MMO Meet & Greet / Mingle
Looking for something to do? Want to make new friends and meet other MMO players? This is the place to be! All MMO players from all games are welcome!

MassivelyMassively goes to Dragon*Con: Saturday events originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantaconventiondc-2008dragon-condragonconevent-coverageeventsmassivelymmo-trackmmogmmorpgpanelsplanningscheduleswow-insiderTue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively goes to Dragon*Con: Friday events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/dragon-con-scheduling-friday-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/dragon-con-scheduling-friday-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/dragon-con-scheduling-friday-events/#comments
All times Eastern. Post will be updated as schedule changes, so be sure to bookmark this and check back! Also of note: frosty adult beverages will be on sale at all night-time ballroom events.

Athens Room:

10:00 AM -
11:30 AM
 DC MMO quest registration
Be an NPC or PC, it's up to you. If you would like to be an NPC for the weekend-long Dragon*Con MMO quest, sign up to receive your instructions. Participation is free!
1:00 PM
 Best of MMO videos
It's like America's Funniest Home Videos, only for gaming videos. Well, slightly more snarky than AFHV and with significantly less Bob Saget. Hosted by Krystalle Voecks.
2:30 PM
 EVE Online: Q&A with CCP
Meet Scott Holden, Lead Mission Designer for EVE Online. Come discuss all the goings on in New Eden!
4:00 PM
 Vanguard: Q&A with SOE
Alan "Brenlo" Crosby and the good folks at Sony Online Entertainment will be here to answer your questions about Vanguard: Saga of Heroes. Come and meet the folks who make it all possible.
5:30 PM
 Achievements in Machinima
What is the current state of the art in Machinima? Christina "Romily" Rollins presents some of the best award-winning machinima from around the globe. Including winners from the Machinima Festival Europe '07, these cutting edge, avant-garde pieces are turning heads and blazing new trails for future machinimists.
12:00 AM
 Machinima Feature: BloodSpell
BloodSpell is Strange Company's first feature length project and is written and directed by Machinima pioneer, Hugh Hancock. Join Christina Rollins (aka Romily) to see BloodSpell, the first feature-length Machinima animated film made using the game Neverwinter Nights. Don't miss this pioneering machinima epic!

Augusta Room:

1:00 PM

 Stargate Worlds: Sneak preview
Sure, D*C has a Stargate track, but what about the upcoming game? Join some of the D*C crew for discussion and a look at this hot new title. [This panel repeats on Saturday at 11:30 AM in the Athens room.]
2:30 PM

 Herding cats 101 (aka Guild Management)
Sometimes the largest challenge in an MMO isn't the raiding; it's getting a group together in the first place. Find out how leaders of successful large guilds get things done - and manage to stay sane.Trevor Legg from <Lost Order of Akalabeth> and Michael McGreevy from <Children of Midian> share their tips and tricks.
4:00 PM
 Guild Wars player gathering
Come meet your fellow Guild Wars players. Make some new friends, and share some dreams for GW2!
5:30 PM
 MMO Etiquette School
Join Mark Crump, Kevin Stallard and Krystalle Voecks (and any other industry folk who decide to pop by) for an old fashioned raucous roundtable of MMOG war stories. Laugh along as the panel and audience swap tales of horror, hilarity and honor in MMOs. For those of you new to MMOGs, this is a great (and funny) object lesson on just what not to do.

Sheraton Capital Ballroom:

7:00PM


World of Warcraft Q&A and Wrath of the Lich King preview
Join Massively and WoW Insider as we answer questions on everything from "old school" raiding to the latest Wrath of the Lich King information in a "no marketing-speak allowed" throw-down. We will also be showing video footage of your first steps as a Death Knight from the current WotLK beta. Note: big fat Wrath spoilers!
10:00 PM

 Funcom's Age of Conan party
According to Conan, the best things in life involve crushing enemies and "der lamentations of der vomen". We can't promise any of that, but we can promise good music, good fun, and good times with the Funcom crew. Come to this hot Hyborean party for prize giveaways, music, contests, and more.

MassivelyMassively goes to Dragon*Con: Friday events originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantaconventiondc-2008dragon-condragonconevent-coverageeventsmmo-trackmmogmmorpgpanelsplanningscheduleswow-insiderTue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively goes to Dragon*Con: Panels and planning]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-panels-and-planning/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-panels-and-planning/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-panels-and-planning/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Planning to attend Dragon*Con this year, but not sure what's going on? Don't worry -- we here at Massively (and our sister site WoW Insider) have been working diligently with the MMORPG track director (and the author of our very own "Ask Massively" column here) Kevin Stallard to create a fantastic track full of all manner of MMOG news and insider views. Of course, this is all in addition to all that awesome gaming, those fantastic panels with stars of stage and screen, writers' workshops, the dealer rooms, the comic book and fantasy artists... You get the idea. We've been assured that it is largely impossible for a geek to not have fun at Dragon*Con. From being involved last year, to the lineup we've helped plan this year, we'd have to agree with that.

So those of you headed for Hotlanta for four days of geeky fun, fire up your printer, grab a cup of coffee and get those highlighters. (Or just bookmark us on your Blackberry, general smartphone, or iPhone!) We're going to run down a listing of the events on the MMOG track for this year so you have the most up-to-the-minute schedule information available. All you have to do is join us after the break for a full run-down of panels. Also be sure to check both this post (and the comments, we're sure) for some great tips and tricks from Dragon*Con veterans on how to make the most of your D*C 2008 experience.

Continue reading Massively goes to Dragon*Con: Panels and planning

MassivelyMassively goes to Dragon*Con: Panels and planning originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantaconventiondc-2008dragon-condragonconfeaturedjoystiqfeaturesmmo-trackmmogmmorpgTue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: PAX or Dragon*Con?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/the-daily-grind-pax-or-dragon-con/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/the-daily-grind-pax-or-dragon-con/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/the-daily-grind-pax-or-dragon-con/#commentsFiled under: , ,

On one side, we have the Penny Arcade crew. Gabe and Tycho are much loved, and for good reason. Penny Arcade continues to be one of the most kick-ass comics out there for gamer culture, and their commentary runs the gamut from deep to hilarious. On the other hand, we have Dragon*Con, with 21 years of everything from pen & paper RPGs to cosplay to stars of the big and little screens. As we've heard it described -- "if a geek ever looked at something and said 'cool', it's probably represented at Dragon*Con." The folks in charge of running Dragon*Con put on approximately 850 hours of panel programming over four days on everything from anime to MMOGs to writing for over 40,000 attendees annually.

The only problem is that both PAX and Dragon*Con have unfortunately landed on the same weekend this year, and it looks like this may be a continuing tradition. So for this morning, we thought we'd ask what your travel plans are for next week. Will you be attending PAX in Seattle, soaking up the gamer culture with Gabe and Tycho? Or will you be heading for Dragon*Con in Hotlanta, the East coast spot for all things geeky pop culture? (For those of you not going to either, have no fear; Massively will be on the ground at both conventions, bringing you all the news!)

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: PAX or Dragon*Con? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Aug 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dcdragonconmassivelypaxpenny-arcade-expotdgthe-daily-grindThu, 21 Aug 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Would your dress up as your MMO character?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/the-daily-grind-would-your-dress-up-as-your-mmo-character/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/the-daily-grind-would-your-dress-up-as-your-mmo-character/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/the-daily-grind-would-your-dress-up-as-your-mmo-character/#commentsFiled under: , ,

As much as many of us probably have an invested amount of time and love in our in-game avatars, would any of you dress up as them? We don't mean dress up poorly, unless that's just your thing. We mean would you dress up as your avatar on a professional level? The whole nine yards with a custom tailored costume sparring no infinitesimal detail. If the answer is no, then we have to wonder what it would take for you to do such an unthinkable thing: Money, cookies, maybe death threats?

This is all especially relevant due to the fact that Massively will be running the MMORPG costume contest this year at Dragon*Con. While we're on the topic of that, we should mention that there is an extreme lack of Warhammer Online costumes out there, so bring the waaagh! We certainly hope that some of you out there aren't too opposed to dressing up and puttin' da Gork in it!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Would your dress up as your MMO character? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cosplaycostumedragonconea-mythicwarwarhammer-onlineWed, 02 Jul 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: Age of Conan - Laissez les abattage rouler!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/24/ask-massively-age-of-conan-laissez-les-abattage-rouler/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/24/ask-massively-age-of-conan-laissez-les-abattage-rouler/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/24/ask-massively-age-of-conan-laissez-les-abattage-rouler/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It might not have the same ring as "Laissez les bons temps rouler!" (That's "Let the good times roll!" in Mardi Gras-ese, for you non Francophones out there), but we are a month away from the release of Age of Conan, and the hype machine is going to kick into high gear shortly. Here at Ask Massively, we have been awaiting this release with great anticipation as you may have noticed from our frequent references to Age of Conan in previous columns.

In fact, our friend and fan, Muskulls, even noticed the references. Trust me when we tell you that in order for something to penetrate that dense cranium of his, it takes the kind of force usually found near event horizons or Oprah's bathroom scale.

Hey stoopid,

What's the deal with Age of Conan? I'm a little burned out on World of Warcraft, and I'm looking for something else to try for a little while. Why are you so hyped on this game?

Muskulls

Using the logic of "If that lunkhead noticed, then it must be painfully obvious to the rest of humanity" and assuming that we've been hyping Age of Conan more than the average gaming site, we'll go ahead and tell you guys exactly why some of us are anticipating this game so eagerly. All you have to do is read past the jump. If you have a question for us here at Ask Massively, feel free to stop by our tipline or drop us an email at ask AT massively DOT com. We don't need any herbal supplements or fake Rolex watches, but if you've got a good deal on a 1957 Harley Panhead, we're all ears!

Continue reading Ask Massively: Age of Conan - Laissez les abattage rouler!

MassivelyAsk Massively: Age of Conan - Laissez les abattage rouler! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Apr 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conandragonconfeaturedfuncomworld-of-warcraftThu, 24 Apr 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: The MMeaning of (Second) Life]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/14/ask-massively-the-mmeaning-of-second-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/14/ask-massively-the-mmeaning-of-second-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/14/ask-massively-the-mmeaning-of-second-life/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


In this week's installment of Ask Massively, I would like to take you, our loyal reader, away from the realms of prognostication and perspicacity and dive headlong into the murk and mire of pure philosophy. If you would like to be enlightened or just offer your opinion on the subject-du-jour, feel free to drop us a note either via our tipline or by sending an email to ask@massively.com.

In last week's column, my brief comment on Second Life generated a fair amount of passion both from those who claim that we spend too much time covering something that "isn't really an MMORPG" and from those who assert that Second Life is an MMORPG in the truest sense of the word.

As our reader, TigroSpottystripes, points out, this debate begs the question

What makes an MMO an MMO?

Unless you have been living under a rock and somehow stumbled upon this website by sheer accident, you are most likely aware that MMORPG stands for Massively (so that's how we got our name!) Multiplayer Online Role Playing Game. It would be easy, and would definitely make this column a lot shorter, to say that these words form a set of criteria that a title must meet in order to be considered part of this genre, but let's dive a little deeper, shall we?

Continue reading Ask Massively: The MMeaning of (Second) Life

MassivelyAsk Massively: The MMeaning of (Second) Life originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Feb 2008 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragonconhumoris-second-life-an-mmorpgsecond-lifeworld-of-warcraftThu, 14 Feb 2008 22:30:00 EST